How much time is required to complete this?
The time required to complete a PDP varies for each individual. For some it can take an hour or two, while others need days to complete it.
It can depend on a number of factors including: which assessment tools you choose to use, how much thought you put into each part, whether you are already familiar with goal-setting for yourself, whether you take it in small chunks or desire to complete it all at once. It is also intended to be a tool that you can keep coming back to in the future.
Do I need an Internet connection?
Not to go through the plan and complete the steps. However, some of the self-assessment tools and resources do require an internet connection.
What if I am a 'problem solver' rather than a 'goal setter'?
No problem. This tool is meant to be personalised in whatever way best fits you. If you prefer to think in terms of problems to be solved or desired outcomes rather than goals, feel free to run with that idea.
How does a PDP tie into AIM’s value statement?
AIM’s values state that we are God-centered, ministry focused and member oriented. The PDP is a tool to help each of us become more Christ-like (God-centered) in every area. Member oriented means a commitment to helping each member grow as they are transformed into the image of Christ. And lastly, our own growth through discipleship helps us to disciple others. The PDP can also be used to develop in ministry areas.
Do I have to show this to my supervisor?
No. However, you are welcome to discuss any part of your PDP with them, particularly during your term review.
Is this part of my term review?
No. However, some of the areas you will cover in your PDP will overlap with areas addressed with your supervisor in regular term reviews. You can share as much or as little of your PDP as you want with your supervisor.
Is this a Biblical concept?
Yes, in more ways than one:
- God expects us to be good stewards of the resources he has entrusted to our care. As the parable of the talents demonstrates, God desires for us to develop the potential that he has given each of us, rather than waste it or hide it.
- Discipleship has always been about the business of making plans to improve oneself and reach God-given potential.
- Scripture is full of ordinary people pursuing lofty goals, with God’s help: Moses, to convince Pharaoh to release the Hebrew slaves; David, to defeat Goliath; the disciples, to make disciples of all the world, and many more.
Which self-assessment tools should I use?
You may choose any of the tools you want. The Ministry Styles Analysis is a great place to start though, as it is very thorough and informative. Apart from that, it may be good to think about what you want to learn about yourself (strengths, motivation style, learning style, team role, etc).
What if I have already used self-assessment tools in the past?
Unless you did them fairly recently, it could be beneficial to do them again, as results tend to change (sometimes minimally) as your circumstances or settings change and as you grow and develop personally.
Can I print off the self-assessment tools rather than doing them on the computer?
Some of them. The PDF and Word files are not online and can be downloaded and printed. The others must be done online. The Ministry Styles Analysis needs to be completed on your computer.
Once I accomplish my goals, then what?
Celebrate! And keep going! A PDP is meant to be a life-long growth process which you can continually update as you celebrate reaching goals and press on towards a still higher mark. That may mean modifying or extending current goals or setting completely new ones.
Who can I ask for help if I get stuck?
If you are stuck on creating goals, etc, the person you have asked to be your Barnabas would be a good go-to person. If it is something within the PDP tool that they cannot help you with, you can always ask your supervisor or anyone else who has worked through the tool already.
How do I choose a Barnabas?
You will want to find someone who you relate to well and who will be willing and able to ask you hard questions to keep you on track. They should also be someone you are able to speak with regularly, whether in person or via Skype or some other method. They should also be someone who is modelling a commitment to lifelong learning as a disciple themselves.
Can I choose a Barnabas from outside of AIM?
Yes, you’re free to choose the person you feel will be most able to help you succeed in your journey.
Why do I need a Barnabas?
The vast majority of us function better when we have someone who helps us keep the commitments we have made to ourselves.
How often do I need to meet with my Barnabas?
This is up to you. Decide with them how often you will send them updates on your progress and how often you want to meet.
What if my Barnabas doesn’t live near me?
No problem, as long as you have a reliable means of communicating with them regularly (mobile, Skype, etc).
Can I choose more than one Barnabas?
Yes, you can choose as many as you think will be beneficial for you. However, having a smaller number may keep things simpler!
Is there somewhere I can send feedback on this PDP resource?
Yes, if you have any comments or suggestions for improvements you’re very welcome to send them to pa.io@aimint.org.
